Buccaneers dump Morris

Morris was considered one of the NFL's up-and-coming head coaching stars just last year after leading a young Buccaneers team to a 10-6 record. The club was off to a 4-2 start this season after an October 16 victory over New Orleans, but didn't win another game.

"We want to thank Coach Morris for all his hard work and dedication as head coach of the Buccaneers," said Buccaneers co-chairman Joel Glazer in a statement.

Tampa Bay gave up the most points in the league this season with 494 -- 45 more than the next closest team, Minnesota. The Bucs surrendered more than 30 points in each of their last five games and were outscored 203-88 in that span.

"I have a lot of respect and appreciation for the passion coach Morris gave to our football team, but this change is one we felt was necessary," stated Bucs general manager Mark Dominik.

Morris had been the team's defensive backs coach for two years and was named the defensive coordinator to replace the outgoing Monte Kiffin in December 2008 before being given the head coaching position in January 2009.

The Bucs were 3-13 in Morris' first season, then nearly made the playoffs in 2010 with the seven-game turnaround. He finished his brief tenure with a mark of 17-31.